Erica Farmer

Erica Farmer is an AI and future skills expert who specialises in helping organisations and individuals adopt technology with confidence and clarity. With over 25 years' experience in learning, development and apprenticeships across major UK brands including LV=, British Gas, Specsavers and Virgin, she has been recognised as an HR Top Mind by HR World in 2026 and shortlisted for Best AI Speaker at both the 2025 and 2026 Speaker Awards. A TEDx speaker, LinkedIn Learning Instructor and author of AI for People Professionals, Erica equips leaders and teams with practical strategies to embrace AI, future-proof their workforce and drive innovation that puts people first.

Over the past 25 years, Erica Farmer has shaped learning, development and apprenticeship strategies for some of the UK's most recognisable brands, including LV=, British Gas, Specsavers and Virgin. Her work has consistently focused on equipping organisations to adapt through innovation, leadership and workforce transformation. Now a recognised voice on AI and future skills, she has channelled that expertise into helping leaders and teams understand how technology can improve productivity, wellbeing and career development without losing sight of the people at the centre of change. Her TEDx talk, Reforming Education through the Digital First Mindset, and her courses as a LinkedIn Learning Instructor reflect her commitment to making complex ideas accessible and actionable.

Erica's credibility in the AI and future skills space is built on both depth of experience and active contribution to the field. In 2026, she was named an HR Top Mind by HR World and shortlisted in HR Magazine's Most Influential list, recognition that underscores her impact across the people profession. She was also shortlisted for Best AI Speaker at both the 2025 and 2026 Speaker Awards, cementing her reputation as an engaging and insightful voice on technology and the future of work. Her book, AI for People Professionals, published by Kogan Page in 2026, offers practical strategies for implementing AI in ways that prioritise human outcomes. Beyond her writing and speaking, Erica hosts the podcast AI for the Average Joe, where she demystifies emerging technology for everyday audiences, and serves as an advisory member of the AI in Work & Skills Forum, contributing to policy and practice at a strategic level.

Erica's sessions are designed to leave audiences with clarity and confidence, not just inspiration. She helps organisations future-proof their workforce by translating AI trends into tangible actions that leaders and teams can apply immediately. Whether addressing ethical AI implementation, digital leadership or empowering people to thrive alongside technology, her approach is always grounded in real-world application. Audiences leave her talks with practical tools, renewed perspective and the reassurance that innovation can be both ambitious and human. Her ability to connect emerging technology with everyday challenges makes her a sought-after speaker for conferences, leadership events and organisations navigating the intersection of people, skills and digital transformation.